From late September and throughout October, red deer stags – the UK's largest native land mammals – come together for their annual rut.
Fuelled by the need to secure mates, males emit deep, powerful roars, strike stoic poses and clash antlers to win and defend a harem of hinds (females). It's a truly staggering spectacle – as this selection of dramatic red deer photos shows.
Red deer are the UK’s largest land mammals. Credit: GettyThese huge deer can be found in various places around the UK, including the Scottish Highlands, Exmoor, Surrey and even London. Credit: GettyDuring the autumn rut, stags roar and fight to win hinds, using strength and stamina to dominate rivals. Credit: GettyStags can weigh over 190 kilograms and live more than 15 years, though harsh winters reduce survival in the wild. Credit: GettyThe rutting season runs throughout autumn. Credit: GettyOnly stags grow antlers, shedding them each spring before regrowth. Credit: GettyTwo red deer stags clash on a frosty morning in Surrey, England. Credit: GettyRed deer are cautious and alert, relying on sharp senses and herding behaviour to detect danger and avoid disturbance. Credit: Getty
